League leaders Hearts welcome reigning champions Celtic this weekend as the two sides meet in a crucial Scottish Premiership clash at Tynecastle on Sunday (kick-off: 3pm).
Derek McInnes’ side are currently six points ahead of both Celtic and Rangers heading into the game, and know that a third successive victory over Martin O’Neill’s team will open up a sizeable gap at the top of the table that will be difficult for the Hoops to recover from.
However, Celtic will feel confident heading into the clash having gone four games unbeaten since the return of O’Neill as manager earlier this month. Meanwhile, their hosts have been hit by the news that several key players are set for lengthy spells on the sidelines.
The Gorgie outfit have added former academy product Marc Leonard to the squad this week, with the 24-year-old agreeing to join on loan from Birmingham City. A significant boost to their options in the centre of the park ahead of the game, the midfield injury issues has started to bite them hard in recent weeks.
Ahead of the game at Tynecastle, The Scotsman has all the latest team news:
13. Ageu - Hearts - OUT
The Brazilian is hoping to return from a hamstring problem next month, but won't be ready in time to face Celtic at Tynecastle. | SNS Photo: SNS Group
14. Calem Nieuwenhof - Hearts - OUT
One of several Jambos to be struck down with a hamstring issue, the Australian has barely played this season due to the injury and there's been no recent update on his progress, or scheduled return. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
15. Johnny Kenny - Celtic - DOUBT
The striker has been sent for scans on a calf strain he picked up during the Europa League match against Bologna on Thursday night, and is a doubt for the game against Hearts. | SNS Group
16. Callum Osmand - Celtic - OUT
Suffered a bad hamstring injury at the back end of the last calendar year in the defeat to FC Midtjylland, and isn't expected back until March at the earliest. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group